Joseph Nicholl was commissioned Second Lieutenant on 23 March 1941 [1]. He joined No.2 Commando on 23 September 1942 later becoming a Lieutenant in 6 Troop. Promoted Captain after 6 Troop's amalgamation with 4 Troop. In 1945 whilst Captain of 5 Troop he was awarded the Military Cross during operations at Lake Commachio [2].

In the action on the Spit across Lake Comacchio on 2 Apr 45, Capt. Nicholl was in command of 5 Troop, 2 Commando. Owing to a break-down in landing craft, Capt. Nicholl's Troop arrived late and was ordered to attack enemy positions defending a bridge, with no opportunity of previous recce or planning as speed was imperative. He personally led his Troop across 800 yds of open country in daylight in the face of heavy S.A. fire from uncharted weapons pits, destroying by himself at least one Spandau post and several rifle pits. 

Later in the day, Capt. Nicholl led his Troop against a strongly-defended gun position. Although he suffered a number of casualties from point blank gun fire and S.A. fire he infiltrated forward with a Bren Team and harassed the gun team with such tenacity it was forced to withdraw. 

On the following day during the advance up the Spit Capt. Nicholl's Troop which was leading was pinned by vicious and heavy D.F. fire. Capt. Nicholl inspired all ranks by his great coolness and personal disregard for his own safety when visiting forward elements to rally them for a further advance.